When we were in Aruba snorkeling, I was able to use a 4th generation iPod touch in a LifeProof case to shoot some under-water video. The experience made me an even stronger believer in the whole LifeProof approach to gear protection. There are, however, times you might want to waterproof your phone or media player, but not have it in a LifeProof case. That’s where one of the products from DryCASE can come in rather handy.

Unlike the LifeProof approach which places your gadget in a specialized case, the DryCASE approach lets you use your device in a standard, non-waterproof case while still using it under water.

The DryCASE for Smartphones is good for waterproof protection up to 100 feet. That’s impressive. Even more impressive is the fact that each pouch is tested in water overnight prior to being packaged and shipped. That way you can feel certain your iPhone, iPod touch, Android or Windows Phone device is safe, secure and dry. Here’s a video look at the kit as well as a good example of what it means to be able to take your phone for a swim.

As you can see from the video, once closed the bag immediately offers waterproof protection. The addition of the one-way valve means that once a bag is sealed you can remove any of the additional air. It is kind of like shrink-wrapping the phone or media player. This not only helps double-check the efficacy of the seal but it also makes using the device easier.

I understand the inclusion of the arm band, but it is so thick and heavy that I cannot imagine actually using it. Had the company designed the arm band as a thin, light accessory it would be quite useful. As it stands the design is poor and the band close to unusable. It is an unfortunate decision. The included lanyard, on the other hand, make perfect sense. It means you can take your device in the water with the confidence that you won’t suddenly find it floating to the bottom of the pool.

I’m still partial to the LifeProof case. It is far more refined than the DryCASE. Moreover, it not only protects your device from water but from bumps and drops as well. At the same time, unlike LifeProof, which is only available for a limited number of devices, the DryCASE works with any device that can fit inside. In addition, it doesn’t preclude using a case or carrying your device naked. At under $40 the DryCASE is a great way to have the option to waterproof your device temporarily. You can learn more about the DryCASE for Smartphones and their other offerings here, on the company website.

MSRP: $39.99

What I Like: Works with any smartphone or media player that can fit inside; Vacuum seal serves as a double-check AND makes using your device easier; Includes armband and lanyard

Having a father who was heavily involved in early laser and fiber-optical research, Dan grew up surrounded by technology and gadgets. Dan’s father brought home one of the very first video games when he was young and Dan remembers seeing a “pre-release” touchtone phone. (When he asked his father what the “#” and “*” buttons were his dad said, “Some day, far in the future, we’ll have some use for them.”)Technology seemed to be in Dan’s blood but at some point he took a different path and ended up in the clergy. His passion for technology and gadgets never left him.